Adjustable Ankle Prosthesis Hinge with Locking Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional prosthetic ankle-foot systems lack adjustable stability, which is particularly desirable during initial rehabilitation phases after amputation, as they do not provide the necessary range of motion adjustments.
Innovation Solution
An ankle prosthesis design featuring a base, upper hinge component, biasing elements, and selectively extendable and retractable locking elements that allow for adjustable range of motion by engaging and disengaging at specific positions, enabling controlled dorsiflexion and plantarflexion movements through adjustment screws or actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional prosthetic ankle-foot systems are used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the range of motion is fixed and cannot be adjusted for different rehabilitation phases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the previously fixed hinge structure adjustable. The hinge component now includes selectively extendable locking elements that can be moved between locked and unlocked positions, allowing the range of motion to be dynamically adjusted according to rehabilitation needs. This transforms a static structure into a dynamic one that can adapt to different functional requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the hinge component into distinct functional elements: the upper and lower hinge components, biasing elements, and locking elements. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together as a system, enabling adjustable range of motion without requiring complete redesign of the entire prosthesis.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable locking elements are added to enable range of motion adjustment, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the hinge assembly: the locking elements serve both as structural connectors between upper and lower hinge components and as adjustable range-of-motion limiters. The biasing elements simultaneously provide return force and work with the locking elements to enable controlled movement. This functional integration adds adjustability without proportionally increasing component count.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing elements automatically provide the force needed to return the hinge to its neutral position after movement, eliminating the need for additional active actuation mechanisms. The locking elements can be selectively engaged or disengaged to self-regulate the range of motion based on rehabilitation requirements, reducing the need for complex external control systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design provides adjustable stability and range of motion, allowing for tailored rehabilitation by limiting pivotal movement between the upper and lower hinge components, enhancing mobility and adaptability to user needs.
Implementation Method 1
The first biasing element can be configured to bias the upper hinge component in a first rotational direction and toward a neutral position. The second biasing element can be configured to bias the upper hinge component in a second rotational direction that is opposite the first rotational direction and toward the neutral position.
Data Source
AI summary
An ankle prosthesis can have a base and an upper hinge component that is pivotably attached to the base about an axis. First and second biasing elements can bias the upper hinge component in first and second rotational directions, respectively. At least one selectively extendable and retractable locking element can extend from one of the base and the upper hinge component and engage the other of the base and the upper hinge component to limit the pivotable movement of the upper hinge component.